Cornerstone Roots (NZ)

Cornerstone Roots

Prepare to feel the music when New Zealand's enduring and essential roots reggae outfit Cornerstone Roots perform at Mullum Festival 2011.

This is heart-warming music, with passion and depth in it's contemporary-styled roots, blended with different textures and colours that make it so distinct.

The Raglan based outfit formed a decade ago, after a jam session that moulded the nucleus of the now much-loved and revered group.

Albums quickly followed and gained plenty of acclaim from international reviewers and the public alike, producing three albums and two EPs to date, with another always on the horizon.

Their latest album ‘Future is Now’ (Vitamin) explores life issues with personal insight, and an overview of looking at the big picture from a small community perspective.

With a strong lyrical approach to their music, Cornerstone comment on vital global issues and the development of personal self-awareness. Their approach to music is about being of value and connecting with people from all walks of life. With their fusion of Jamaican, New Zealand/Pacific Island and soul inspired musical influences, the band has produced an original sound that is uniquely Cornerstone Roots.

The line up has evolved many times since its humble beginnings, and now features six members including founders Naomi Tuao andBrian Ruawai, along with their 11-year-old son Reiki.

Being no strangers to Australia, Cornerstone Roots have crossed the Tasman more than 24 times over the last 7 years playing countless club and festivals dates. Their music has also reached Japan and Brazil, Europe and the United States as well as their home country. The band returned from an eight-week European tour in 2010 with an astonishing response from central European countries. They have supported many a heavyweight reggae act including Burning Spear, Toots and the Maytals, Sly and Robbie, along with Michael Rose, Jimmy Cliff, Lee 'Scratch' Perry and Mad Professor.